Portable WiMAX/WiFi router to create personal hotspot is getting popular for example Sprint currently offering three products which are Cradlepoint PHS300S, Cradlepoint MBR-1000 and the latest one is Sierra Wireless AirCard W801.
CLEAR also provide Cradlepoint PHS300S as CLEAR Spot, the portable WiMAX/WiFi router.
The key features that W801 more advance than Cradlepoint’s product is supports both 3G and 4G networks. It’s not only for WiMAX/WiFi but also support 3G CDMA EVDO Rev A (850 & 1900 MHz).

Recently Sprint announced the Overdrive 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot from Sierra Wireless.It has a 1.4″ LCD that provides important information such as connection status, connected users and battery life. It also includes built-in GPS capability (on 3G), MicroSD slot for up to 16 GB memory cards creating shared storage, and an extended Wi-Fi range of up to 150 feet.

Overdrive can be tethered via USB extension cable that comes with it to a computer in order to charge the battery, connect to the network as well as share up to 5 WiFi-enabled devices/users.

Overdrive works on WiMAX 2.5GHz, WiFi 802.11 b/g and support the latest Windows 7 & Mac OS X. Sierra Wireless boasts that you can stay connected with up to 4 hours usage time, and 38 hours standby.

Apparently Sierra Wireless utilized Beceem BCSM250 single-chip mobile WiMAX solution and MC5728 (CDMA module with Qualcomm QSC6085). Both parts also in Sprint 3G/4G U301.

Overdrive 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot will available beginning on Jan. 10 exclusively from Sprint for $99.99 (excluding taxes) after a $50 mail-in-rebate with a two-year service agreement. Also Sprint will offer simplified 3G/4G data plans for consumers and businesses at $59.99 monthly (price plans exclude surcharges and taxes).

Press Release, Product Page, Datasheet (PDF)

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